A grizzly bear attack in Bella Coola, British Columbia, has left 11 people injured, including two in critical condition. The incident occurred on Thursday afternoon, November 20, 2025, along a walking trail, prompting authorities to warn residents to remain indoors while armed officers search for the animal.
As of Friday afternoon, four of the victims remained hospitalized, according to British Columbia Health Services Authority.
Veronica Schooner, a parent of one of the students, described the scene to the Canadian Press, noting that a male teacher bore the brunt of the attack while children were sprayed with bear deterrent as adults tried to protect them. Her 10-year-old son, part of the school group, was unharmed but recalled the bear passing very close to him.
British Columbia Emergency Health Services confirmed that two people were critically injured, two sustained serious injuries, and seven others received treatment at the scene. Victims were transported to a nearby airport for airlift to the nearest hospital.
The group attacked was from Acwsalcta School, operated by the indigenous Nuxalk Nation, located approximately 700 km northwest of Vancouver. In response to the attack, school officials temporarily closed the institution and are providing counselling services for students and staff.
The Nuxalk Nation advised residents on social media to stay indoors and off highways while armed officers continue the search. Officials expressed gratitude for the efforts of the school staff and emergency responders during the traumatic incident.
